Excessive or Negligent Security

In Las Vegas, claims of excessive security often arise from incidents at nightclubs and similar venues. As a general rule, a business establishment is not liable for an employee’s intentional tortious conduct. Excessive security cases are different because a bouncer’s job inherently involves the use of physical force on patrons. When excessive force is used in furtherance of business objectives, the business itself may be exposed to liability.

Similarly, a business may face claims of negligent security when an individual is assaulted and suffers injuries due to a failure to maintain control or to intervene as quickly as reasonably expected. While surveillance footage may support these claims, businesses often respond by alleging that the injured party was intoxicated or belligerent.

Witness statements can be particularly persuasive, especially when they come from individuals previously unknown to the claimant. Because Las Vegas clubs and hotels routinely deny these claims regardless of their merits, consulting with an experienced attorney is essential to properly develop the evidentiary foundation of the claim.